"Biblioquilts," by Larry Clifford

Library : Weston Public Library

Location : Art Gallery Weston Public Library, 87 School Street, Weston, MA, 02493

Start : Monday 17th of November 2025 12:00 AM

End : Monday 17th of November 2025 12:00 AM

Description :

Artist’s Statement My “biblioquilts” and murals are created using distressed books that I salvage from basements, attics, and public libraries. I repurpose every part--covers, pages, spines--breathing new life into the materials with the addition of dyes, inks, and acrylics. In fact, quilts made from recycled materials are nothing new. But the combination of mixed media and repurposed books presents a new challenge. Each piece is comprised of thousands of “tiles” meticulously hand-cut from discarded or damaged books that no one has paid attention to in decades. Most were on their way to the dump. I also collaborate with families, libraries, and communities on commissioned pieces (murals, typically). My goal is to create original works of art that evoke warm memories for everyone. The books that my clients supply may be damaged, deaccessioned, or obsolete--but not forgotten. After earning a B.A. in Art from Northwestern University, and an M.A. in Biomedical Communications from the University of Texas, I spent 15 years producing award-winning biomedical illustrations, with an emphasis on traditional media, such as pen-and-ink, carbon dust, and watercolor. I then switched to strategic planning, marketing, and business development for the nonprofit sector--mostly because I wasn’t interested in creating artwork on a computer. What can I say? I’m old school. At this stage in my career, I’m thrilled to be getting back to my roots as a maker of fine crafts. Image caption: Patchwork Quilt (48x48"), repurposed books and mixed media, composed of 1,152 tiles harvested from old hardcover books that had been discarded by public libraries.  westonlibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/biblioquilts-by-larry-clifford-17/